Tim Richardson the new CEO of The Ville, Ardo and Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre

Getting right down to business on his first day as the chief executive of The Ville, Tim Richardson said he is excited for the next era.

New CEO of The Ville Tim Richardson.

Getting right down to business on his first day as the chief executive of The Ville, Tim Richardson said he is excited for the next era of the Townsville icon.

Mr Richardson has relocated from the Gold Coast with his young family and said a big plus for the decision to move was the outdoor, sunny lifestyle that Townsville offers.
“The thing that drew me to Townsville was with having a young family, it is a very outdoorsy, sporty place with great school and great hospitals,” he said.

“It’s a well-rounded opportunity for the family and we decided it would be a great move to make.”
With exiting chief executive Michael Jones staying on board to handover for the next few months, Mr Richardson said he has watched The Ville transform over the last seven years under Michael’s helm.

New CEO of The Ville Tim Richardson.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the business move into the future, as we work on consolidating and growing with the team,” he said.

Having previously worked as a general manager of customer strategy and technology, and also with Star Entertainment, Mr Richardson said it was easy to see why locals and tourists are drawn to the precinct.

“It’s position in the Townsville market will remain at the top and it’s our challenge to keep it there, keep it fresh and give people reasons to come,” he said.

Mr Tim said the attention to detail, food and beverage options, facilities and events prove The Ville and it’s surrounding properties provide something for everyone.

Joining the more than 1000 employees across the businesses, Mr Richardson said everyone had been ‘very welcoming’ and that it showed the friendly character of Townsville.

“I’ve been really, really welcomed and it’s certainly something I won’t take for granted,” he said.

The Ville’s departing CEO Michael Jones and Morris Group founder and Executive Chairman Chris Morris. Picture: Evan Morgan

Outgoing CEO Michael Jones said he has known Mr Richardson for many years and has a ‘great respect for the way he thinks’.

“The property has such an exciting future and I know Tim will do a sensational job leading the team,” Mr Jones said.

Describing The Ville, Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre and Ardo’s waterfront location as ‘one of the best in Australia for an entertainment precinct’, Mr Richardson said the connection to Townsville is important when considering the future.

“We understand that the community plays a great part in our business and I think, in turn, we respect and contribute back to the community as much as we can.”

“It’s a mutual respect.”

Originally published as Tim Richardson the new CEO of The Ville, Ardo and Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre